Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
7 RecallsThese are official manufacturer recalls ordered by NHTSA for safety defects. If you own this vehicle, contact your dealer immediately for free repairs.
Kia America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC278
Recall Date: Aug 24, 2023
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC172
Recall Date: Dec 19, 2018
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC162
Recall Date: Mar 8, 2018
Consumer Complaints
301 ComplaintsKia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I am the second owner of this car. According to carfax it has been well maintained at kia since day one. I have owned it for almost 6 months and it has been sitting at the dealership for 2months due to engine failure. There is a rod knock and sludge build up not for lack of maintaining it but from not being driven enough. I am being told it is a $16,000 repair. These cars are warranties for 10 years 100,000 miles (it only has 72,000 miles on it) but since I'm not the original owner that warranty doesn't follow. This is a misrepresentation.
Corrective Action:
I am the second owner of this car. According to carfax it has been well maintained at kia since day one. I have owned it for almost 6 months and it has been sitting at the dealership for 2months due to engine failure. There is a rod knock and sludge build up not for lack of maintaining it but from not being driven enough. I am being told it is a $16,000 repair. These cars are warranties for 10 years 100,000 miles (it only has 72,000 miles on it) but since I'm not the original owner that warranty doesn't follow. This is a misrepresentation.
Additional Notes:
I am the second owner of this car. According to carfax it has been well maintained at kia since day one. I have owned it for almost 6 months and it has been sitting at the dealership for 2months due to engine failure. There is a rod knock and sludge build up not for lack of maintaining it but from not being driven enough. I am being told it is a $16,000 repair. These cars are warranties for 10 years 100,000 miles (it only has 72,000 miles on it) but since I'm not the original owner that warranty doesn't follow. This is a misrepresentation.
Mfg Campaign: 11507594
Recall Date: Feb 16, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
My car was stolen on February 14, 2023 at 7pm.
Corrective Action:
My car was stolen on February 14, 2023 at 7pm.
Additional Notes:
My car was stolen on February 14, 2023 at 7pm.
Mfg Campaign: 11507377
Recall Date: Feb 15, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER
Potential Consequences:
My car was stolen on February 14, 2023 at 7pm.
Corrective Action:
My car was stolen on February 14, 2023 at 7pm.
Additional Notes:
My car was stolen on February 14, 2023 at 7pm.
Mfg Campaign: 11507377
Recall Date: Feb 15, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
my check engine symbol started to flash, my car was not going over 2 RPM, took it to my mechanic, when he scanned it, he told me it's showing P132600, and that the engine might be failing, I have a KIA Optima 2017 with 70k miles on it. thanks god I wasn't on the expressway.
Corrective Action:
my check engine symbol started to flash, my car was not going over 2 RPM, took it to my mechanic, when he scanned it, he told me it's showing P132600, and that the engine might be failing, I have a KIA Optima 2017 with 70k miles on it. thanks god I wasn't on the expressway.
Additional Notes:
my check engine symbol started to flash, my car was not going over 2 RPM, took it to my mechanic, when he scanned it, he told me it's showing P132600, and that the engine might be failing, I have a KIA Optima 2017 with 70k miles on it. thanks god I wasn't on the expressway.
Mfg Campaign: 11503893
Recall Date: Jan 26, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact’s sister-in-law owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine failed to turn over. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed and the mechanic determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that his sister-in-law was informed that the VIN was included in a recall; however, the contact’s sister-in-law was not notified of a recall prior to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the recall notification was sent to the prior owner due to the contact’s information not being updated. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact’s sister-in-law owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine failed to turn over. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed and the mechanic determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that his sister-in-law was informed that the VIN was included in a recall; however, the contact’s sister-in-law was not notified of a recall prior to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the recall notification was sent to the prior owner due to the contact’s information not being updated. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact’s sister-in-law owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine failed to turn over. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed and the mechanic determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that his sister-in-law was informed that the VIN was included in a recall; however, the contact’s sister-in-law was not notified of a recall prior to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the recall notification was sent to the prior owner due to the contact’s information not being updated. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11503237
Recall Date: Jan 23, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
ENGINE MALFUNCTION: It is available for inspection at Lee Kia, Greenville, NC On January 20, 2023, my car experienced a blinking Malfunction Lamp (MIL) when I was out of town at an appointment in Williamston, NC, 16 miles away. This is the indicator, when blicking, warning for the Knock Sensor Detection System software that was put on my car on December 20, 2018 that the engine is malfunctioning. After my appointment, I drove the car one mile to AutoZone in Williamston, NC and they plugged in their sensor and got the P1326 code. While at AutoZone, I called the Service Center at Lee Kia of Greenville, NC and reported what had happened. They told me not to drive the car and have it towed to them, 1 hour away. My tow service would only allow towing ½ mile to the Dodge Dealership. I called Lee Kia Service Center and talked to a [XXX], Manager of the Service Center. She said it had to go to a Kia Dealership to be covered under the Engine Replacement Recall. On Saturday, January 21, 2023, I called the Service Center at Lee Kia and asked for an update on the car. The Service person told me that it had arrived and they would diagnosis it either that day or on Monday, January 23, 2023. On Monday, January 23, 2023 in the early afternoon, I called Judith the Manager of Lee Kia Service Center and asked for an update on the car. She told me it would take 4 months to diagnosis the car and I would not be able to have a rental car until it was diagnosed. When I asked why it would take 4 months to diagnose my car, she said she had 15 cars ahead of me. She said she only has two technicians that can diagnosis and it takes one day to diagnose a car. The mathematics of that did not add up. My car should be diagnosed in 16 business days, not 4 months. She refused to help me. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Corrective Action:
ENGINE MALFUNCTION: It is available for inspection at Lee Kia, Greenville, NC On January 20, 2023, my car experienced a blinking Malfunction Lamp (MIL) when I was out of town at an appointment in Williamston, NC, 16 miles away. This is the indicator, when blicking, warning for the Knock Sensor Detection System software that was put on my car on December 20, 2018 that the engine is malfunctioning. After my appointment, I drove the car one mile to AutoZone in Williamston, NC and they plugged in their sensor and got the P1326 code. While at AutoZone, I called the Service Center at Lee Kia of Greenville, NC and reported what had happened. They told me not to drive the car and have it towed to them, 1 hour away. My tow service would only allow towing ½ mile to the Dodge Dealership. I called Lee Kia Service Center and talked to a [XXX], Manager of the Service Center. She said it had to go to a Kia Dealership to be covered under the Engine Replacement Recall. On Saturday, January 21, 2023, I called the Service Center at Lee Kia and asked for an update on the car. The Service person told me that it had arrived and they would diagnosis it either that day or on Monday, January 23, 2023. On Monday, January 23, 2023 in the early afternoon, I called Judith the Manager of Lee Kia Service Center and asked for an update on the car. She told me it would take 4 months to diagnosis the car and I would not be able to have a rental car until it was diagnosed. When I asked why it would take 4 months to diagnose my car, she said she had 15 cars ahead of me. She said she only has two technicians that can diagnosis and it takes one day to diagnose a car. The mathematics of that did not add up. My car should be diagnosed in 16 business days, not 4 months. She refused to help me. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Additional Notes:
ENGINE MALFUNCTION: It is available for inspection at Lee Kia, Greenville, NC On January 20, 2023, my car experienced a blinking Malfunction Lamp (MIL) when I was out of town at an appointment in Williamston, NC, 16 miles away. This is the indicator, when blicking, warning for the Knock Sensor Detection System software that was put on my car on December 20, 2018 that the engine is malfunctioning. After my appointment, I drove the car one mile to AutoZone in Williamston, NC and they plugged in their sensor and got the P1326 code. While at AutoZone, I called the Service Center at Lee Kia of Greenville, NC and reported what had happened. They told me not to drive the car and have it towed to them, 1 hour away. My tow service would only allow towing ½ mile to the Dodge Dealership. I called Lee Kia Service Center and talked to a [XXX], Manager of the Service Center. She said it had to go to a Kia Dealership to be covered under the Engine Replacement Recall. On Saturday, January 21, 2023, I called the Service Center at Lee Kia and asked for an update on the car. The Service person told me that it had arrived and they would diagnosis it either that day or on Monday, January 23, 2023. On Monday, January 23, 2023 in the early afternoon, I called Judith the Manager of Lee Kia Service Center and asked for an update on the car. She told me it would take 4 months to diagnosis the car and I would not be able to have a rental car until it was diagnosed. When I asked why it would take 4 months to diagnose my car, she said she had 15 cars ahead of me. She said she only has two technicians that can diagnosis and it takes one day to diagnose a car. The mathematics of that did not add up. My car should be diagnosed in 16 business days, not 4 months. She refused to help me. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Mfg Campaign: 11503267
Recall Date: Jan 23, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Engine oil consumption: I have owned this car since November 2022 and took my Kia Optima to Valvoline for an oil change in December 2022 because my oil light came on and it turns out that my car was 3 quarts low and they topped my oil off for me. 1 month (January 2023) later my oil light in my car did NOT come on but the check your engine light did and it seemed like it was losing power. So in order not to damage the engine I had it towed to my home when we arrived at my home oil started coming out of the car at the bottom while it was still on the tow truck lift the car was facing down hill
Corrective Action:
Engine oil consumption: I have owned this car since November 2022 and took my Kia Optima to Valvoline for an oil change in December 2022 because my oil light came on and it turns out that my car was 3 quarts low and they topped my oil off for me. 1 month (January 2023) later my oil light in my car did NOT come on but the check your engine light did and it seemed like it was losing power. So in order not to damage the engine I had it towed to my home when we arrived at my home oil started coming out of the car at the bottom while it was still on the tow truck lift the car was facing down hill
Additional Notes:
Engine oil consumption: I have owned this car since November 2022 and took my Kia Optima to Valvoline for an oil change in December 2022 because my oil light came on and it turns out that my car was 3 quarts low and they topped my oil off for me. 1 month (January 2023) later my oil light in my car did NOT come on but the check your engine light did and it seemed like it was losing power. So in order not to damage the engine I had it towed to my home when we arrived at my home oil started coming out of the car at the bottom while it was still on the tow truck lift the car was facing down hill
Mfg Campaign: 11502885
Recall Date: Jan 20, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Engine oil consumption, I have owned this car since new and almost every other week I need to add oil. My car has 85k miles on it , and has been service by dealer since new, just 2 months ago Pomona kia said my oil pan gasket had a small leak and replaced the gasket, today 3500 miles after the gasket replacement my car needed 3 quarts of oil. I'm not a mechanic but I know my car should not go trough so much oil. Someone please help.
Corrective Action:
Engine oil consumption, I have owned this car since new and almost every other week I need to add oil. My car has 85k miles on it , and has been service by dealer since new, just 2 months ago Pomona kia said my oil pan gasket had a small leak and replaced the gasket, today 3500 miles after the gasket replacement my car needed 3 quarts of oil. I'm not a mechanic but I know my car should not go trough so much oil. Someone please help.
Additional Notes:
Engine oil consumption, I have owned this car since new and almost every other week I need to add oil. My car has 85k miles on it , and has been service by dealer since new, just 2 months ago Pomona kia said my oil pan gasket had a small leak and replaced the gasket, today 3500 miles after the gasket replacement my car needed 3 quarts of oil. I'm not a mechanic but I know my car should not go trough so much oil. Someone please help.
Mfg Campaign: 11502085
Recall Date: Jan 17, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
Engine oil consumption, I have owned this car since new and almost every other week I need to add oil. My car has 85k miles on it , and has been service by dealer since new, just 2 months ago Pomona kia said my oil pan gasket had a small leak and replaced the gasket, today 3500 miles after the gasket replacement my car needed 3 quarts of oil. I'm not a mechanic but I know my car should not go trough so much oil. Someone please help.
Corrective Action:
Engine oil consumption, I have owned this car since new and almost every other week I need to add oil. My car has 85k miles on it , and has been service by dealer since new, just 2 months ago Pomona kia said my oil pan gasket had a small leak and replaced the gasket, today 3500 miles after the gasket replacement my car needed 3 quarts of oil. I'm not a mechanic but I know my car should not go trough so much oil. Someone please help.
Additional Notes:
Engine oil consumption, I have owned this car since new and almost every other week I need to add oil. My car has 85k miles on it , and has been service by dealer since new, just 2 months ago Pomona kia said my oil pan gasket had a small leak and replaced the gasket, today 3500 miles after the gasket replacement my car needed 3 quarts of oil. I'm not a mechanic but I know my car should not go trough so much oil. Someone please help.
Mfg Campaign: 11502085
Recall Date: Jan 17, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I took my Kia Optima to Century 3 Kia for an oil change in August of 2022. 2 months later my oil light comes in my car but I still have 2000 miles left until next oil change. I called Century 3 Kia complaining of a flashing oil light. They told me since I still have 2000 miles until the next oil Change, the mechanic must’ve just forgot to reset the car after they did my oil Change and that’s why it’s flashing. They told me to come down so they can reset it. They reset it and sent me on my way without even checking my oil. After leaving I still had the oil light on so I took it to a mechanic close to home to check my oil and I barely had any in there. I topped the oil off and the light went away. I sent Kia consumer an email after this visit complaining of the bad service I received and how they made me drive with no oil. I attached the email. I then scheduled an appointment at a different Kia dealership - South Hills kia for a new oil change and told them to please check my oil because I believe it could be burning. South Hills Kia performed a multi point inspection and gave me an oil change and told me my car had no signs of leaking or burning oil and is good to go . Not even a month after the new oil change my engine blows and the dealer told me it’s because of burning oil and I’ll need a whole new engine. My car is a 17 Optima with 61,000 miles and just a mout of warranty . It’s always been up to date on oil changes. It’s upsetting because I trusted Kia and now my vehicle is down because of them and they want me to pay.
Corrective Action:
I took my Kia Optima to Century 3 Kia for an oil change in August of 2022. 2 months later my oil light comes in my car but I still have 2000 miles left until next oil change. I called Century 3 Kia complaining of a flashing oil light. They told me since I still have 2000 miles until the next oil Change, the mechanic must’ve just forgot to reset the car after they did my oil Change and that’s why it’s flashing. They told me to come down so they can reset it. They reset it and sent me on my way without even checking my oil. After leaving I still had the oil light on so I took it to a mechanic close to home to check my oil and I barely had any in there. I topped the oil off and the light went away. I sent Kia consumer an email after this visit complaining of the bad service I received and how they made me drive with no oil. I attached the email. I then scheduled an appointment at a different Kia dealership - South Hills kia for a new oil change and told them to please check my oil because I believe it could be burning. South Hills Kia performed a multi point inspection and gave me an oil change and told me my car had no signs of leaking or burning oil and is good to go . Not even a month after the new oil change my engine blows and the dealer told me it’s because of burning oil and I’ll need a whole new engine. My car is a 17 Optima with 61,000 miles and just a mout of warranty . It’s always been up to date on oil changes. It’s upsetting because I trusted Kia and now my vehicle is down because of them and they want me to pay.
Additional Notes:
I took my Kia Optima to Century 3 Kia for an oil change in August of 2022. 2 months later my oil light comes in my car but I still have 2000 miles left until next oil change. I called Century 3 Kia complaining of a flashing oil light. They told me since I still have 2000 miles until the next oil Change, the mechanic must’ve just forgot to reset the car after they did my oil Change and that’s why it’s flashing. They told me to come down so they can reset it. They reset it and sent me on my way without even checking my oil. After leaving I still had the oil light on so I took it to a mechanic close to home to check my oil and I barely had any in there. I topped the oil off and the light went away. I sent Kia consumer an email after this visit complaining of the bad service I received and how they made me drive with no oil. I attached the email. I then scheduled an appointment at a different Kia dealership - South Hills kia for a new oil change and told them to please check my oil because I believe it could be burning. South Hills Kia performed a multi point inspection and gave me an oil change and told me my car had no signs of leaking or burning oil and is good to go . Not even a month after the new oil change my engine blows and the dealer told me it’s because of burning oil and I’ll need a whole new engine. My car is a 17 Optima with 61,000 miles and just a mout of warranty . It’s always been up to date on oil changes. It’s upsetting because I trusted Kia and now my vehicle is down because of them and they want me to pay.
Mfg Campaign: 11502188
Recall Date: Jan 17, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I purchase the car at the end of November of 2022 from drive time. I was driving on January 8th 2023 and the car speed reduced and the check engine light started flashing
Corrective Action:
I purchase the car at the end of November of 2022 from drive time. I was driving on January 8th 2023 and the car speed reduced and the check engine light started flashing
Additional Notes:
I purchase the car at the end of November of 2022 from drive time. I was driving on January 8th 2023 and the car speed reduced and the check engine light started flashing
Mfg Campaign: 11501673
Recall Date: Jan 13, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Forward collision avoidance system activated with no vehicle stopped in front. Brakes locked up multiple times and then unlocked.
Corrective Action:
Forward collision avoidance system activated with no vehicle stopped in front. Brakes locked up multiple times and then unlocked.
Additional Notes:
Forward collision avoidance system activated with no vehicle stopped in front. Brakes locked up multiple times and then unlocked.
Mfg Campaign: 11493365
Recall Date: Nov 13, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Potential Consequences:
Forward collision avoidance system activated with no vehicle stopped in front. Brakes locked up multiple times and then unlocked.
Corrective Action:
Forward collision avoidance system activated with no vehicle stopped in front. Brakes locked up multiple times and then unlocked.
Additional Notes:
Forward collision avoidance system activated with no vehicle stopped in front. Brakes locked up multiple times and then unlocked.
Mfg Campaign: 11493365
Recall Date: Nov 13, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
On June 5th 2022 as I was traveling out of state with my wife and daughter the car lost power on the highway. I pulled over to the side when safe and noticed whitish grey smoke puffing from under the hood by the hinges. Being a fire lieutenant, I recognized this as the car being on fire. We exited the vehicle, my daughter was asleep in the back seat, so it was a panic to wake her and make sure she got out away from traffic. Within the 3 minutes I was on the phone with 911 the car was engulfed. A few minutes after the first Chief arrived the fire had reached the fuel tank and the vehicle exploded, approximately 8 minutes in. I opened a claim with my insurance and with Kia America. Kia has taken the blame but refused to replace the vehicle, instead offering me $15000 for the car with only 57000 miles on it. After fighting with Kia for 3 weeks during my claim they finally provided me with a rental vehicle paid for by their insurance. To this date they have not paid for said rental and I am now on the hook for the $930 charge. This event has caused much undue stress on me, I already have cardiac issues, my wife and daughter still have nightmares from the event. Kia inspected the vehicle which is totally burned, they found it to be an engine failure causing oil to spill onto the hot exhaust. They accepted blame. There was no warning, no noises, no lights. I never received a recall notice, I found out about the recall from my insurance after the fact. Kia has been less than helpful.
Corrective Action:
On June 5th 2022 as I was traveling out of state with my wife and daughter the car lost power on the highway. I pulled over to the side when safe and noticed whitish grey smoke puffing from under the hood by the hinges. Being a fire lieutenant, I recognized this as the car being on fire. We exited the vehicle, my daughter was asleep in the back seat, so it was a panic to wake her and make sure she got out away from traffic. Within the 3 minutes I was on the phone with 911 the car was engulfed. A few minutes after the first Chief arrived the fire had reached the fuel tank and the vehicle exploded, approximately 8 minutes in. I opened a claim with my insurance and with Kia America. Kia has taken the blame but refused to replace the vehicle, instead offering me $15000 for the car with only 57000 miles on it. After fighting with Kia for 3 weeks during my claim they finally provided me with a rental vehicle paid for by their insurance. To this date they have not paid for said rental and I am now on the hook for the $930 charge. This event has caused much undue stress on me, I already have cardiac issues, my wife and daughter still have nightmares from the event. Kia inspected the vehicle which is totally burned, they found it to be an engine failure causing oil to spill onto the hot exhaust. They accepted blame. There was no warning, no noises, no lights. I never received a recall notice, I found out about the recall from my insurance after the fact. Kia has been less than helpful.
Additional Notes:
On June 5th 2022 as I was traveling out of state with my wife and daughter the car lost power on the highway. I pulled over to the side when safe and noticed whitish grey smoke puffing from under the hood by the hinges. Being a fire lieutenant, I recognized this as the car being on fire. We exited the vehicle, my daughter was asleep in the back seat, so it was a panic to wake her and make sure she got out away from traffic. Within the 3 minutes I was on the phone with 911 the car was engulfed. A few minutes after the first Chief arrived the fire had reached the fuel tank and the vehicle exploded, approximately 8 minutes in. I opened a claim with my insurance and with Kia America. Kia has taken the blame but refused to replace the vehicle, instead offering me $15000 for the car with only 57000 miles on it. After fighting with Kia for 3 weeks during my claim they finally provided me with a rental vehicle paid for by their insurance. To this date they have not paid for said rental and I am now on the hook for the $930 charge. This event has caused much undue stress on me, I already have cardiac issues, my wife and daughter still have nightmares from the event. Kia inspected the vehicle which is totally burned, they found it to be an engine failure causing oil to spill onto the hot exhaust. They accepted blame. There was no warning, no noises, no lights. I never received a recall notice, I found out about the recall from my insurance after the fact. Kia has been less than helpful.
Mfg Campaign: 11492794
Recall Date: Nov 8, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle onto the driveway of her home. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the mechanic stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The sparks plugs were replaced but the failure persisted. On another occasion, the contact noticed that oil was leaking from under the vehicle again, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was oil cylinder #3 spark plug. The spark plug and PCV valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 93,226.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle onto the driveway of her home. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the mechanic stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The sparks plugs were replaced but the failure persisted. On another occasion, the contact noticed that oil was leaking from under the vehicle again, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was oil cylinder #3 spark plug. The spark plug and PCV valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 93,226.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle onto the driveway of her home. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the mechanic stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The sparks plugs were replaced but the failure persisted. On another occasion, the contact noticed that oil was leaking from under the vehicle again, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was oil cylinder #3 spark plug. The spark plug and PCV valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 93,226.
Mfg Campaign: 11490969
Recall Date: Oct 26, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle onto the driveway of her home. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the mechanic stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The sparks plugs were replaced but the failure persisted. On another occasion, the contact noticed that oil was leaking from under the vehicle again, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was oil cylinder #3 spark plug. The spark plug and PCV valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 93,226.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle onto the driveway of her home. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the mechanic stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The sparks plugs were replaced but the failure persisted. On another occasion, the contact noticed that oil was leaking from under the vehicle again, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was oil cylinder #3 spark plug. The spark plug and PCV valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 93,226.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima. The contact stated that oil was leaking from the vehicle onto the driveway of her home. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the mechanic stated that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The sparks plugs were replaced but the failure persisted. On another occasion, the contact noticed that oil was leaking from under the vehicle again, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was oil cylinder #3 spark plug. The spark plug and PCV valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not replaced. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a call back. The failure mileage was 93,226.
Mfg Campaign: 11490969
Recall Date: Oct 26, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Corrective Action:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Additional Notes:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Mfg Campaign: 11490469
Recall Date: Oct 23, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Potential Consequences:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Corrective Action:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Additional Notes:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Mfg Campaign: 11490469
Recall Date: Oct 23, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Corrective Action:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Additional Notes:
For the past 5-6 months I’m have ongoing issues with my engine and excessive oil consumption. I’ve completed the three oil consumption test per 1000 miles. On the last test(3rd check), I was told I passed and nothing further was needed. Approximately 1 month after that my engine light illuminated and my car violently shook upon acceleration and while sitting idle. Was informed it was my spark plugs and electric coil… oh and a routine oil change, which I paid to have repaired at approx. $650 this was in late August/Early September. Now here we are in late October and my oil lamp is on yet again! My car does not achieve speeds no higher than 50 mph. I’ve been to the dealership 7 times since April 2022. There’s an expense with owning cars but this is ridiculous. I’m currently a few hundred miles shy of 80,000 miles
Mfg Campaign: 11490469
Recall Date: Oct 23, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
UNKNOWN
Corrective Action:
UNKNOWN
Additional Notes:
UNKNOWN
Mfg Campaign: 11489324
Recall Date: Oct 14, 2022
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Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
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